In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, South Riverdale Community Health Centre (SRCHC) held screenings of the short film Northern Feathers: Love, Culture, Harm Reduction for community members at 955 Queen St E and 2 Gower St locations.
In the spring of 2022, SRCHC created a first-of-its-kind program that brought together Indigenous women who use drugs and provided a space for their inclusion in cultural activities from a harm-reduction framework. Northern Feathers follows this group of women on their transformative journey as they learn to dance and create their own regalia (the traditional clothing and accessories worn by Indigenous people at dances and cultural events). Throughout the short film, the women and project staff share their deeply personal experiences of cultural reclamation and Indigenous community-building.
The program’s philosophy, was articulated by the late Elder Wanda Whitebird, who provided guidance to the project: “Harm reduction is not about drugs … it’s about unconditional love and about being there on your own terms.” For those unable to attend a screening, the film is now available on YouTube.
Both screenings served traditional Indigenous food and drink, including bannock, bear paws and cedar tea. The evening screening on October 2nd opened with a thoughtful few words from Toronto-Danforth MPP Peter Tabuns who shared his passionate support for harm reduction services and the important impact they have on our most vulnerable community members.
The memorable evening also featured a performance by Indigenous drummer, Isaiah Cada, and a panel discussion with the film director, Jason Cipparrone, executive producer, Les Harper, and the late Elder Wanda Whitebird, who provided special guidance for the program which the film was based on.
During the Q&A session, audience members and panelists engaged in a thought-provoking discussion about the importance of harm reduction programs, which will become even more essential following the slated closure of at least 10 Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) sites across the province by March 31, 2025, including KeepSIX.